YOUNGSTERS in Middlesbrough have helped to launch a new scheme to encourage cycling.

Cards have been produced showing five cycling routes through the borough.

Sunnyside Primary School pupils hopped on their bikes to check out one.

The card scheme is part of the Healthy Town programme and is the brainchild of Middlesbrough Council cycling officer Chris Orr and Sustrans Bike It officer Pam Jenkins.

The pair teamed up to take the Sunnyside pupils on a guided ride around Coulby Newham to raise awareness of the free folder which features five separate routes.

Chris said: “The route cards take in most areas of the borough, so we hope people will use them to get out on their bikes and have fun exploring their local area by bike.”

Pam, who works with the pupils at Sunnyside on a variety of cycle promotional events, said: “The route cards are an excellent way of helping encourage more families to cycle together using safe routes they will feel comfortable with.”

The ride from Sunnyside Primary School incorporates the crossing of Newham Way by the newly-installed Toucan crossing close to the school. The crossing was installed with cash backing from Sustrans, the UK’s leading sustainable travel charity.

Paul Thompson, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Streetscene services and transport, said: “Exercise - especially in the great outdoors - is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, and cycling’s a great way to get around.

“These route cards will provide inspiration for countless cyclists, and I’m sure lots of families will use them for a great day out on two wheels.”